These 10 Theaters In Maine Will Give You An Unforgettable Viewing Experience

Maine has a pretty remarkable art scene, from live theater to galleries highlighting just about any medium you can imagine. It’s no surprise that Mainers not only appreciate art, but also where it takes place. For those of you who love the venue as much as the main attraction, here are a few theaters (and we’ve thrown in some drive-ins for fun!) that will surely give you an unforgettable experience.

The Grand Theater, a non-profit performing arts venue, has been around for over 75 years. They put on over 200 shows a year, including the upcoming play "The Farnsworth Invention" debuting on June 3rd.

The BAC is based out of The Barn, a performance and rehearsal space in Bass Harbor. They offer a huge range of events - from plays to concerts to opportunities for artist residencies for artists producing new work. They've just announced their summer lineup, which can be seen here.

This drive-in has been up and running since 1954. If you're in the Skowhegan area, this is your only option for 50 miles - a fact they're very proud of! Check here to find out when they open for the season and their lineup.

The Criterion is well-known throughout Maine for good reason. Built in 1932, it is rumored to house a few ghosts, but more noteworthy is their dedication to preserving the space for storytelling and performances. They offer a range of events from live performances to films. See their calendar of events here.

The Alamo Theater was built as a cinema in 1916 and is one of New England's oldest standing structures built as a cinema. Today is is home to the Northeast Historic Film, a moving image archives dedicated to preserving the film and video record of northern New England. See more at their website.

It may look a bit strange from the outside, but inside there are great things happening. The Opera House, built in 1912, is home to the Opera House Arts, a non-profit dedicated to preserving the building, along with staging theatrical productions and screens films. The building has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1991. Click here for their events calendar.

Now home to the Penobscot Theatre Company, this building is said to be haunted. Theatergoers and performers have reported sightings of two firefighters who were crushed by a brick wall and killed during a devastating 1914 blaze. Aside from that, it's a great place to check out a show. This summer they'll be giving you live theater performances like "Rock of Ages" as well as comedies and music focused shows. Click here for their events calendar through the summer.

What are your favorite local spots for live performances and other art? Let us know over on our Facebook page!

Michelle has lived in many places, but counts Maine as one of the best. In addition to the smell of ocean water in the air on rainy days in Portland, she loves puppies, photography, funny people, the Maine Red Claws, traveling, fresh tomatoes, Cambodia and filling out forms. For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.